Deception has found its way everywhere. Nowadays, there is nothing that really comes out clean. A part of it always has a stain of dishonesty and spoils the name of the whole industry. There are so many ways people use to gain from unfair means. If you are moving or relocating, be aware of the moving scams because you might land yourself in trouble.
How It Works
Moving scams often happen online where the moving brokers quote “low ball" prices without actually intending to provide quality service. After succeeding in securing your move by giving you a non binding estimate, they come to pack and deliver your goods using deceptive weight measurements. And without prior information, they tell you that your goods went over the expected allotment of space for which you will be charged a higher price.
This new price is a big headache as its rate goes 4 to 5 times higher than the actual one estimated earlier. Knowing that you really value your belongings that could be placed anywhere in the truck by now, they take this advantage to demand the large amount of money.
Getting Rid of Scammers
Avoid looking for moving companies using computer databases. It usually works on commission basis and even if the companies they approve of turns out to be crooked, the people operating on the database cannot be held responsible later. Make sure that the written quote (if you have any) includes all the charges related to your move. Inform them of exceptional situations like elevators, stairs, long walks, etc because these might become a reason for additional charges.
Give importance on researching the moving company before agreeing to hire it. Areas like Florida and New York have the maximum number of filed complaints against movers. So, be extra careful when you are moving to one of these areas. Ask your mover to come to your place and furnish references. Get the estimated weight of your items and do not forget to get a copy of the survey. Make comparisons with other moving companies before you decide on anything.
Insurance is one of the most important aspects about moving. Get a “full value protection" insurance for any goods that might get lost or damaged. This assures you of a safety delivery and since this facility has an additional charge, make sure you list your extraordinary valuables on a high-value inventory receipt.
Settle the date and time for pickup and delivery. Incase they fail to show up on time, you may recover those expenses from the mover as a delay claim Record any damaged goods on the driver’s copy of the inventory. You will be asked to sign the inventory when everything is unloaded. Before signing it, make sure that everything is in good condition.
Not every moving company provides services purely based on sincerity. There are too many people working towards their own profit. But the preventive steps you take for your move will certainly keep you free from all kinds of scams that are going around.
